Yeah wonderdog makes an appearence to help Gracie keep Sue safe.

Dianna

oh levi your a hero

Oh my. I'm a blubbering mess. I think it's because once this case if finally wrapped up, then Levi will truly be gone forever.

Wonderful job with your story, though. Simply wonderful!

You guys are the greatest! Thanks for sticking with this story.

Sue was transfixed by the scene unfolding in front of her. “Levi,” she breathed. She knew without a doubt that the dog holding Dermo at bay was Levi. After all, she had seen Gracie sprinting towards the tree line.

Do what Sue said…Get Jack, the command echoed in Gracie’s head. She ran towards the tree line, sniffing the air for Jack’s familiar scent. Locking onto it, she sprinted to his side. Pawing his leg, she waited for him to respond.

Seeing him look at her, she beckoned him to follow. She ran a few feet and turned to make sure Jack was following. When he didn’t she ran back to him and pawed his leg again. This time she barked to gain his attention. “Hey, Mate, I think she wants you to follow her,” she heard the man with the strange accent say. She nodded her head and ran off in the direction of Sue.

Jack followed Gracie into the forest, Bobby and Myles hot on his heels. Crashing through the underbrush, he prayed he wouldn’t lose sight of the golden retriever. Then he heard the scream. Stopping in his tracks, he listened, pulling his gun from the holster. It was a scream of terror…a male’s scream of terror. Taking off in the direction of the scream, he found the source.

Steven Dermo was lying on his back, desperately covering his face with his arms as a golden retriever stood over him, teeth bared and growling. Jack took the scene in quickly. Sue was standing, tied to a tree. Gracie was sitting peacefully beside her. He ran to Sue, his eyes never leaving the man who was held captive by a snarling mass of golden hair. He untied Sue and took her in his arms. “Are you okay?” Seeing her nod, he took her in his arms.

He glanced between Gracie and the golden retriever snarling at Dermo. Gazing into Sue’s eyes, he breathed, “Levi?” He returned his gaze to the dog, seeing the tail wag in response to the name. “I told you I saw him today,” he heard her whisper in his ear, his eyes still not believing what he saw. He watched as Myles and Bobby approached the man and dog. Once they were close enough to apprehend Dermo, he called, “Levi, let him go.”

Bobby glanced at Myles. Did I hear right? he thought. Seeing the same questioning look in Myles eyes, he assumed he had. He shook his head in disbelief as Levi followed Jack’s command and move away from Dermo. Bobby placed Dermo’s hands behind his back, snapping the cuffs on him. Grinning down at the golden retriever sitting in front of him, he winked, “Good job, buddy.” His heart jumped as Levi seemed to smile. “I always knew he was a wonder dog,” he heard Myles say. “Okay, mate,” he pushed Dermo towards the tree line. “Let’s go.”

“Thanks, buddy,” Jack called to the golden retriever. “Thank you for taking care of my Sue.” He turned to Sue, placing a gentle kiss on her lips, pulling her closer into his protective embrace. She was there, safe and still his. Pulling away slightly, he turned back to Levi. He gasped, Levi was gone. He gazed into Sue’s eyes, seeing the same shocked expression on her face. “Did you see where he went?”

“No,” she whispered. “One minute he was there, the next, he was gone.” She smiled. “Maybe his job was finished.” Bending down, she gently stroked Gracie’s head. “You did a good job, too, Gracie. You got Jack down here when I needed him. I’m proud of you.” Turning to Jack, she kissed his cheek. “Come on, let’s get out of here.” Picking up Gracie’s leash and placing her hand in Jack’s, she led the trio from the forest.

******************
Sue watched from behind the two-way glass as Jack, Bobby and Myles interrogated Steven Dermo. She bit her bottom lip and she read the expressions on her friends faces. She had never seen them this aggressive with a someone in custody before. She held her breath as the interrogation intensified.

“We’ve caught you dead to rights, Dermo.” Jack growled. “We saw you with Sue.”

“All you saw was me lying on the ground, a vicious dog standing over me. You have no proof.”

“Come on mate. We have an eyewitness who happens to be the victim.” Bobby quipped.

“Might as well make it easy on yourself, Dermo.” Myles added.

“What you have, gentleman, is a defective eye witness. The only thing she is good for is what I was planning on doing to her once Agent Hudson was out of the way.”

Jack lunged at Dermo, grabbing him by his shirt collar and hauling him to his feet. Before the others could react, Jack had him pinned against the wall. He felt the fire flash in his eyes and saw the look of fear that crossed Dermo’s face. He stood nose to nose with the creep. “You filthy piece of…”

“Jack!” He let the curse die on his lips when he heard Bobby call his name. He felt strong hands on his arms. He maintained his grip on the jerk’s shirt collar. “Don’t. He’s not worth it.”

Jack knew Bobby was right. The man he held in his grasp was not worth risking his career for, but Sue was. This grimy, pompous little man had…Jack pushed the thought from his mind. If he didn’t, if he had let his mind picture what could have happened, he would tear the creep apart with his bear hands. Through gritted teeth Jack spat his reply to Dermo. “You’re lucky I’m not in here alone. If I ever hear you say anything like that about Sue again, I will personally rip your heart out.” Giving the man a rough shove, he removed his hands and turned, exiting the room.

Sue opened the observation room door. As Jack passed, by, she caught him by the arm and pulled him inside, closing the door behind them. She could still see the anger in his eyes as she pulled him into an intimate embrace. She held him close until she felt his muscles relax a little. Pulling away, she gazed into his smoldering brown eyes. “Its okay, Jack.”

“Sue, he could have…” Sue watched as Jack lost the tight grip he had on his emotions. Her heart broke as the tears flooded Jack’s eyes. Sue reached up and placed her fingers against his lips. “Jack, nothing happened. He didn’t carry through on his threat. You’re here, I’m here. We are both safe and sound.” She saw a lone tear splash down his cheek. Reaching up, she gently brushed it away. “I love you, Jack Hudson. I’m here to stay.”

She saw Jack grin through his tears. “I love you too, Sue Thomas. I’m never going to let you go.” Sue felt his strong arms pull her closer. Her breath caught in her throat as he lowered his lips to hers. Despite all the events of the day, she had never been happier than she was, standing there in her true love’s arms.

D slowly opened the door to the observation room. Seeing Jack standing with Sue in his arms, he cleared his throat. “Jack. Why don’t you take Sue home? I think Bobby and Myles can handle Dermo. Besides, the Director is on his way down for a meeting. I’ll fill him in on the case then. I think you two could use some rest before the costume party tonight.” D gave Jack a knowing wink.

“Thanks, D. Would you tell Myles that I will take care of the surveillance equipment he wanted to catch the kids TPing his yard?” Jack asked.

D smiled as he watched the gentle way Jack turned so that Sue could follow the conversation. He has always taken such great care to make sure Sue feels included. This one is going to last. “Sure Jack. Are you planning some mischief of your own?”

“Maybe.”

D smiled at the wicked glint in Jack’s eyes. Tonight promised to be most entertaining. “Okay Jack. Now you two get out of here.”

D walked back to his office. Sitting down at his desk, he opened the folder. I’ll update the Director on the case, he planned. Then, I’ll get his final approval for my little project.

More later
Kim

Glad Sue is safe, thanks to Graicie and Levi

Oh please Director! Please scrap that "no dating" rule!

You are doing a great job. I am really enjoying this.

Levi truly is the Wonderdog!!! Good girl Gracie!!

Can't wait for the party and what is D up to?

Hurry up and post again Kim, this so good!!!

Sam

so much to catch up with
well done dogs and team

AD scrap that stupid rule

wonder what jack is planning

cath

kim that was great thank you levi and gracie
now for the non dateing police to be banned hope jack is thinking
wedding bells for him and sue cant wait for the next post lin

Levi, the Wonder Dog saved the day once again!! I think he's happy about Gracie and knows that she will take care of Sue along with Jack!! I'm glad that everyone saw the miracle of his being there still protecting Sue!!!

D, I hope your little project is successful!!!

Great story, Cath!!!

Joy

Kim, once again, phenomenal writing!!!!

Jen

I'm not a violent person but I kind of wish Jack would have torn that creep apart I'm glad they caught him! Now... fuzzies?

Em

The fuzzies are definitly coming in the next few posts.

Chapter 8

Jack waited by the elevators as Sue entered the bullpen to retrieve Gracie and her purse. He watched as Lucy exited the bullpen and headed towards the observation room. This was an opportunity he couldn’t miss. “Hey Lucy, wait up!”

Sprinting up the corridor, he caught up with the matchmaker of the team. She is going to be totally blown away tonight, he grinned. “Is Sue’s room going to be back in order by tonight?”

“I don’t know. Why do you ask Jack?” Lucy asked.

“No reason. I was just thinking about inviting Allie over this evening after the party. But if Sue will be staying with me, then I guess I won’t,” he sighed. He bit his cheek to keep from laughing at the look of shock that crossed her features. He was amused at the way she spit and sputtered as she finally came up with a reply.

“Sue will definitely have to stay with you this evening Jack. In fact, her bedroom might not be inhabitable for several days. So you had just better get used to having Sue around.” He watched as Lucy turned on her heels and headed back into the bullpen, almost colliding with Sue. There was a determination in her stride that told him she would soon be seeking out the rest of the team to work on more strategy.

“What are you smiling about?” Sue asked as Jack pulled her into the deserted elevator.

“I was just stirring things up a little with our Ms. Dotson.” Jack smiled, placing his arms around her waist and pulling her close. He laughed as Sue gave him her best you-had-better-behave look. “Don’t worry. She will forgive us everything after tonight.” Giving Sue his best Hudson wink, he leaned in for a slow, languid kiss, leaving them both breathless.

Hearing the elevator doors open, he pulled away, moving his hands from her waist and taking her hand, pulling her towards his car. “Come on, Thomas. We need to stop by Myles’ before we head to my apartment.” He smiled as he opened the passenger door, settling Gracie into the back seat before helping Sue into the passenger seat. Glancing at his watch, his smile lit his face. Only six more hours.

Stopping by Myles’ house, Jack left Sue and Gracie in the car. He entered the house using the spare key he had lifted from Lucy’s purse. Myles should have remembered to get the key back after they broke up, he chuckled as he entered the house. Heading upstairs to the front guest room, he quickly unpacked the equipment. He carefully positioned the camera and laptop. “Perfect!” he grinned as he pulled the door closed and headed down the stairs and out of the house to his waiting fiancée.

Arriving as his apartment, Jack exited the car, sprinting around to help Sue. Leaving Sue to get Gracie out, he went to the trunk to retrieve the garment bags containing their costumes. He withdrew the top garment bags, smiling down at the garment bags hidden underneath the first. Closing the trunk, he made his way to Sue’s side, offering her his arm as they entered his apartment building.

More later
Kim

two sets of garmet bags I wonder what their costume's are for the party?

Dianna

Another 2 garment bags???...Interesting...

jack, you are such a tease............ bet luce rushed in to the pen to tell them all about allie

cath

Fun ain't it!!

Sam

Garmet bags... that sets my imagination going. I have this feeling that this Halloween is going to turn out for them to be glorious instead of ghostly, fulfilling rather than frightening, heavenly rather than haunting...well you get the idea .

WOW please come back put us out of our misery,
bet allies names mud in the pen but why extra garment bags;
with custumes what are they:prettyplease: hurry back kim lin

This was great....nicely done.

You're having way too much fun, Hudson!! I love it!!!

Joy

Thanks, guys. The replies are a welcomed bonus to sharing this story.

With Bobby and Myles busy interrogating Steven Dermo, Lucy took over the surveillance for Operation Couple United. She grinned when she arrived at Jack’s apartment and saw his car already in a parking space. She observed Jack entering the apartment building with garment bags slung over his arm. Calling Bobby’s cell, she watched as the tow truck hooked to Jack’s car. She heard a crisp Australian accent answer. “Bobby, they are here and the tow truck has the car.” Closing her phone, she pulled back out into traffic. After all, she still had a party to get ready for.

Bobby grinned as he dialed Jack’s apartment. The plan was back on schedule. “Hey, mate…I didn’t interrupt anything now did I,” Bobby chuckled at the flustered response he received. “Hey listen, I forgot to tell you. The Bureau is going to take your car in for routine maintenance tonight…No, I don’t expect you to walk to the party…Because I am your best friend, I have arranged for transportation for this evening…Be ready by 8:00.”

Jack grinned as he hung up the phone. “They are really going all out,” he signed to the blonde beauty who was snuggled against him on the couch. He sat up, pulling her with him. “That was Bobby. He said our transportation would be here at 8:00.”

“Our transportation? I thought we were going in your car.” Sue grinned. The team was really trying hard to make something happen that had happened months ago.

“If I know Bobby, he has probably arranged for a limo to take us.” His breath caught in his throat as Sue started to nibble on his ear. He groaned as she started to trail kisses down his neck. He was still amazed at how bold his shy spitfire had become since he had asked her to be his wife.

Stopping the assault on Jack’s neck, Sue raised her eyes to his. She saw the smoldering fire in the dark depths. She was amazed that Jack Hudson wanted her, desired her, would be her husband in eight weeks. She gave him a wicked grin and whispered in his ear, “It might be more interesting to have someone else do the driving, tonight.” Her smile widened as she saw the passionate look on Jack’s face. “But right now,“ she breathed, resuming the assault on his neck. “I need to go and get ready for the party.” With those parting words, she bolted from the couch and ran to the bathroom.

It took all of Jack’s restraint to keep from following her. He knew she was committed to waiting until they were married. There was no way he would ask her to compromise her beliefs. She wouldn’t be the Sue he fell in love with if she compromised. Looking down at Gracie, lying beside the couch, he leaned over and scratched her ears. “I don’t think I ever thanked you for taking care of Sue this afternoon. You’ll never know what it meant to me.” Jack smiled gently as Gracie actually wagged her tail for the first time.

Retrieving his cell from the coffee table, he murmured, “Okay Gracie, you can’t tell Sue about this phone call I’m making. This will be our little secret.” His fingers trembled a little as he dialed the now familiar number. He ran his fingers through his hair as he waited for an answer.

“Hello, Mr. Thomas…Yes, sir. I realize you have already given me your blessing…No that’s not why I called…I just wanted to make sure everything was going as planned…Good…Are you guys all settled in?...Good…Mr. Thomas, thank you for everything…Okay, see you later.” He chuckled as he hung up the phone. Tonight is going to be perfect! he mused as he dialed another number.

“Hey, Mom…I am so excited…Are you and Dad settled in…Good…I just wanted to check and make sure everything was okay…I love you, too…Okay, see you later.” Yep, just perfect.

By 8:00, Jack was seated beside Sue in the back of the limo, having decided to leave Gracie behind tonight. When he had seen his costume, he had to laugh. Lucy had chosen a 1950’s theme, complete with letterman’s jacket. He rummaged through his dresser drawers, finding the perfect accessory…his high school class ring. Now, sitting beside Sue, he realized Lucy had made a wise choice. Sue was dressed in a poodle skirt, blouse and saddle oxfords. He had watched her as she expertly hid the necklace with the engagement ring in the red scarf she knotted around her neck. He glanced at his watch, Four more hours.

Sitting across the table from Sue, Jack chuckled softly. “They really have gone all out, haven’t they?”

Sue grinned, “They sure have. In fact, I feel a little bit guilty about taking advantage of the situation. Don’t you?”

“After some of the stunts Bobby had pulled,” Jack grinned. “Not a chance.” He gazed into those hazel eyes filled with so much love and devotion. Sue made him want to be a better person. And, if he were honest with himself, he did feel a little guilty. “Of course we could always make it up to them at our wedding.”

Sue gazed at Jack and wondered just what she had done to deserve such a wonderful man. She loved his playful side. But she also loved how compassionate he was. She knew he loved the team, no matter how much grief they gave him.

“Hey, I have something that will complete that costume,” Jack smiled. He slipped his class ring off his finger. Taking Sue’s left hand in his, he placed the ring on her first finger. It was a perfect fit. “You know, if I had known you in high school, I would have asked you to wear this.”

“Yeah,” Sue sniffed, fighting the tears she felt welling in her eyes. “I would have said yes.” She smiled as she watched his eyes mist. She leaned across the table a kissed him softly on the lips. “Thank you, Jack.”

“Welcome” he signed. He leaned towards her and returned her kiss. Sitting back, he glanced at his watch. Three hours to go. “I guess we had better be going.” He rose from his chair, walking around the table and offering her his hand. He wrapped his arm around her waist and walked out of the restaurant, arm-in-arm with the woman he loved.

More later
Kim

I think I'm really gonna love Jack's plan......counting down with him!

Only three more hours!!!

So, Jack had counted down to three hours.

Cute post, I liked the costumes for Jack and Sue. Can't wait to see what the costumes are for the rest of the team.


Dianna

Chapter 9

“So it was really Levi?” D asked. He was finding it hard to fathom the story that Bobby, Myles, Jack and Sue had told. If it had been any one but those four relating this story, he would have dismissed it as a bunch of hogwash. Despite the fact he was seated across the table from Blackbeard, Shakespeare and two 1950’2 teenagers, these four were among the top agents at the Bureau.

“Yes, D.” Jack looked D square in the eyes. “I know it was Levi.”

D just nodded his head. He still was not convinced. “Okay. Well, that should just about do it for ghost stories for the evening. I don’t think anyone will ever be able to top that one.” He smiled as he watched the team nod in agreement. They had definitely seen something out there this afternoon.

The ringing doorbell interrupted the conversation. Myles, being the host, rose to answer it. He opened the door to reveal a petite woman dressed in a beautiful, but simple business suit. “You look great, Drew,” Myles whispered as he ushered her in the door. “But you don’t look much like a gypsy fortune-teller.”

“Who is Drew?” the woman asked. Myles couldn’t help but notice the thick southern accent in her voice. “That’s a great accent,” he noted. “How long did you work to aquire it?”

“All my life,” the woman replied. Is this guy crazy or what, she thought. “Look, I don’t know who you think I am, but my name is Katrina. I was sent to your house tonight to reveal the truth and provide some assurances for the future.”

“Well, Katrina,” Myles winked. “If you will come right this way, we have everything set up in here.” He ushered her into the small den off the dinning room. He felt it was the perfect room for an intimate setting. It was large enough to hold all the team members, yet small enough for it to be intimate. “You get everything set and I will go round up the guests.”

He is a very unusual man, Katrina pondered as she settled into the chair behind the round table holding the crystal ball. Setting the ball on the floor, she replaced it with a lone pillar candle which she lit. Still, she mused, there is something about him that makes me think there is a very kind, gentle man hidden somewhere beneath all that bravado.

“Hey, guys,” Myles called. “The fortune-teller is here.” He held back as his friends filed by. Catching Tara by the wings of her Tinkerbell costume as she passed by, he whispered, “Tara, wait until you see your friend, Drew. She is fantastic. She even has this southern accent that is unbelievable.”

Tara smiled at Myles as she passed, “I’m glad you approve.” She stopped at the doorway. Hearing Myles come up behind her, she turned to face him. “That’s not Drew,” she hissed.

Myles could feel his jaw drop, “What do you mean that’s not Drew? Who else could it be?”

“I don’t know.” Tara replied. “Maybe Drew got tied up with something and sent this woman instead. But that is not Drew.”

“Should we try to get rid of her? I mean, what if she is a criminal trying to infiltrate the FBI.” Myles asked.

Tara popped him in the shoulder with her fist. She heard his whispered “Ouch” in response. “Leland, you and your conspiracy theories. I don’t think she is a criminal and I think we should let her stay. I’ll talk with Drew in the morning and get the whole story. Right now, let’s just have some fun, okay? After all, this is for Jack and Sue.” She turned and entered the room, edging her way around the room to sit with Bobby.

Myles lowered the lights as he entered the room. He remembered to leave them bright enough for Sue to be able to follow the conversation. He eyed Katrina thoughtfully as he made his way to sit in the only available chair. He smiled as he realized the Leland luck was holding out. He slid into the chair beside Lucy and settled in for an entertaining evening.

“My name is Katrina and I have been sent here to reveal the truth and give some assurances about the future. Sometimes, God, in His infinite wisdom will roll back the curtains of time and allow us to glimpse inside. If anything occurs here tonight, it is because of His grace. If anything occurs here tonight, it is because He has something He needs to assure you of. Now, I will do this in pairs. Who will start?” She sat back in her chair and waited.

“Why don’t Jack and Sue go first,” Lucy suggested. She hid her sly smile behind the fan that came with her Geisha costume.

“Yeah, Sparky,” Bobby grinned. He gave Jack’s shoulder a little push.

“Go ahead,” Myles smirked. “After all, you are the team leader.”

Jack glanced at Sue for support. “Come on, Sue. Help me out here,” he pleaded.

Sue gave him a mischievous wink. “Come on Sparky. If you’re scared, I’ll hold your hand the whole time.”

Jack grinned broadly. Grabbing Sue’s hand, he mumbled, “Now how could I refuse an offer like that.” Leading Sue to the table, he held her chair while she sat down. Taking his seat beside her, he nestled her hand in his.

Katrina gazed at the couple now seated across the table. She could see the love that surrounded them and radiated from them. Taking a deep breath, she began, “Sue, can you see well enough to read my lips?” Seeing Sue nod, she continued. “Jack and Sue, you are destined to be together. For you, there is no Allie or David, only one another. God has ordained and blessed your union. Your love is a bridge between your two worlds. You were made for each other. Never doubt that. Your love will continue to grow and change.” Katrina smiled as she heard the gasps that escaped the lips of her spellbound audience as the smoke of the candle floated and changed, forming an intertwining J and S. She nodded gently as she saw Jack gently caressing Sue’s hand with his thumb.

Katrina waited until Sue’s eyes were focused on her once again. “Your love for one another has been there all along, waiting for you to acknowledge it. Now that you have, you will have a long, happy life together. The journey will not always be smooth. There will be trials and tragedy. But there will also be the joys of children and grandchildren and a life filled with love. At the end of each day, you will fall asleep, wrapped in each others embrace and the knowledge that yours is a love that will never die. Jack, God has heard the prayer you prayed earlier today. Be assured that He, in His infinite grace will grant that request. One final thing. You must both release your guilt over Levi. No greater love has any creature than he lay down his life for a brother. That’s why he would not want you to blame yourselves. He gave his life freely. You were his family. He loved you all deeply. His love will surround you in all your days to come, providing the protection he offered in his life.” Katrina observed the young couple as they gazed lovingly into each others eyes. “Now, go in peace and with the knowledge that God will walk beside you both throughout your life together.”

Katrina smiled as Jack rose from his chair and helped Sue from hers. Chivalry is not dead. She waited until Jack and Sue resumed their seats with the rest of the team. She noted that Jack wrapped his arm around Sue’s shoulders and pulled her close, his free hand capturing one of hers and holding it in his lap. “Who is next?”


More later
Kim

WOW kim both post were wonderful,
cant wait for whats about to happenat least I
hope it is lin

can i be thick and ask what a class ring is, we don't have thenm in britain....... or if we do now we didn't when i was at schoo

l2 wonderful posts, i'm happily fuzzified

cath

Wow they were 2 great posts Kim!!!

Sam

MYLES.... MYLES AND LUCY YOU GO

That was a really beautiful reading for Jack and Sue!! But, who is Katrina???

Cath, here in the States we have class rings, usually for seniors in high school, and also for college. It usually has some kind of stone in the middle and your school name is engraved on it. It's kind of traditional that if you have a girlfriend that she wears your school ring to show the world, so to speak, that you belong to each other!!!

Joy

Great post. you are doing a wonderful job on this story.I wonder which couple is next.

Dianna

Great job Kim! Jack and Sue are soooo

Em

so might jack have given sue one in my story? do the girls have one to give to the guys?

it's a great idea, do you get it back if you break up ?
cath

If Jack were a junior or senior and was really comitted (or as comitted as a teenager can be LOL) to Sue, then yes, he might have given her his class ring. A girl can give her guy her class ring as well. If she does, the guy usually wears it on his pinky finger (if it would fit) or on a chain around his neck. It is kind of a teenage engagement ring/promise ring. If there is a break-up, then the girl gives back the guys class ring and vice versa. Kind of like breaking an egagement. If it is a rather heated break-up, then the guys class ring usually gets hurled in the direction of his head (I'm just kidding on the hurling at his head thing) I hope I haven't totally confused you.

Kim

Thank you guys for the interest in my story. I am glad you are enjoying it. BTW, who Katrina is will be revealed by the end of the story.

“What do you say, Crash? Are you up to the challenge?” Tara quipped.

“Sure. Why not?”

Katrina chuckled as the Aussie gentleman led the bubbly lady to the table. She noticed that their love, though not as deeply rooted as Sue and Jack’s, was still the kind that would last a lifetime. Their passion ran deep and had forged love while Jack and Sue’s love ran deep and had forged their passion. The ending was the same, an eternal love that time would never erase. “Tara and Bobby, your passion often leads your hearts. It is that passion that has forged the beginnings of a love that God has ordained to last a lifetime. Your love is fresh and new. It is as fragile as the flame of this candle. It may flicker at times, but the ember has a tight hold in your hearts. God’s gentle spirit will swoop in and fan the ember into brilliant flame whenever it seems to flicker and almost go out.” Katrina heard another gasp as the smoke from the candle drifted heavenward. She watched as the smoke undulated, first together, then apart, finally intertwining to form a deeply etched B and T.

Refocusing on the couple seated in front of her, she continued. “Hold on to that as you face the trials of a beginning love. In the end, it will be a deep and lasting love that will touch two continents. Your children and grandchildren will grow up knowing that you never lost your enthusiasm for life, for love and for each other. Now, go in peace and with the knowledge that God will be there for you when you need Him. Don’t be afraid to seek Him out.”

She laughed with the team as Bobby leaned over and gave Tara a loud smack on the lips. She delighted in the delicate blush that rose in Tara’s cheeks. Katrina grinned as Tara protested, elbowing Bobby in the ribs. Their union will definitely keep the team in stitches for years to come, she mused as she watched Bobby take Tara by the hand and lead her back to their seats, refusing to release her hand even after they were seated. “I guess that leaves Myles and Lucy.”

“Go on up their Mate,” Bobby sniggered.

Katrina chuckled again as Myles rose from his seat. Watching him adjust the Elizabethan collar of his costume, she nodded, Definitely a strange man.

“Shall we, madam?” Katrina held her breath as Myles extended his hand to Lucy. She breathed as Lucy hesitantly allowed Myles to take her hand. Ah, she had a willing heart. She waited as Myles helped a shuffling Lucy to the table. She knew the young woman was moving as fast as the Geisha costume would allow. Once they were seated, she focused all her energy on the tentative admiration the couple had for one another.

Katrina smiled as she saw that the admiration could blossom into a romance that would last a lifetime, if Myles and Lucy would just left go of the past hurts they had inflicted on one another. Despite Myles’ bravado and Lucy’s stubborn refusal to forgive, they still were attracted to one another. However, if they refused to remove the barriers that stood between them, then they would never be more than co-workers who quibbled like an old married couple. Sighing deeply, she began.

“Myles and Lucy, God would like to see you make a life with one another. However, in His infinite wisdom, He has given humankind the gift of choice. He has placed the choice of going on together or continuing to take separate paths in your hands. You are the only ones who can make that choice. He knows what He would like to see happen, but the choice is yours. She sensed that the team was waiting for the smoke from the candle to divulge it’s secrets as it had on the previous couples. Sadly, she knew, unlike the other couples, the choice to love had not yet been made.

“If you choose to take the first tentative steps back to one another, then you must remove the barriers that rest between you. Myles, you have to be willing to show and share your vulnerable heart to Lucy. It’s okay to let her see just how fragile your emotions can be at times. You don’t always have to keep that Bostonian stiff upper lip.” She watched as Myles swallowed hard. She smiled as he slowly nodded his head. She knew he had made his choice.

“Lucy, you have such a kind heart, wanting only what you know is best for your friends. That’s why you have worked so hard over these past three and a half years to bring Jack and Sue together. You knew they were in love with each other and deserved to be able to share that love instead of hiding from it. You deserve that as well. However, you must forgive Myles for his past mistakes. We have all made mistakes that we regret. But, you have the unique opportunity to forgive and be given the gift of an everlasting love that will replace the past hurts. Trust him with your heart, Lucy. God assures you that he won’t break it this time.” She knew the moment the realization sank in. She smiled as Lucy slowly nodded. Her choice had been made. As they stood to return to their seats, they blocked the view of the candle. Katrina was the only one to see the smoke swirl and form an intertwined M and L.

Katrina gazed at the lone agent in the back of the room. She knew that the Roman Centurion had left Donna at home to keep a tight rein on Tanya and Davey. Yet, she had a message for him. “Demitrius, I know you are not expecting a message since you are here alone. However, God has a message for you.”

She watched as D paled slightly. “Demitrius, as a supervisor, you feel that you are responsible for everything that happens to your friends, family and coworkers. In one way, you are. You are responsible for making decisions that will result in a successful outcome to a case. You know successful outcomes often come at a heavy cost. This is a heavy responsibility and one that you do not take lightly. However, you are not solely responsible for things that happen in this life. God is the One ultimately in control, regardless of the decisions you make. Life’s road is not always smooth. Sometimes, the future is cloudy and dark, filled with days of loss that seem to never end. Remember Demitrius, even when your days are dark and the weight of your loss seems too heavy to bear, God promises to be there to hold you up and bear the weight, not with you, but for you. Remember, ‘Weeping may last for the night, but joy comes in the morning.’ God will be with you through the dark night and give you the joy of a lifetime when the rays of the morning sun touch your soul.” Her eyes grew moist as D smiled gently. She could only hope that D would allow God and his friends to share the burden when the responsibilities of the job threatened to drown him. He would need their support in the months and years to come.

Katrina extinguished the candle. “I have one more assurance to offer. God has placed each one of you in the lives of the others for a reason. Each one of you has a unique quality that will bind you together as a team and, at the end of the day, as friends. Remember, no matter what life throws at you, you are not alone. You have each other and you have God.”

The team gasped as the room was suddenly thrown into a moment of darkness. When the light returned, Myles was the first to notice that Katrina was gone. “Where did she go?” he asked. Seeing nothing but shrugs from his guests, he shivered slightly.

“Okay,” Bobby breathed. “That was just a little weird.” He chuckled slightly as he watched his friends nod in agreement.

“Hey, don’t we have some little vandals to catch?” Lucy quipped, trying to steady the quiver in her voice. She was shaken by the events of the last hour, but she was not about to abandon Operation Couple United. She had heard what Katrina had said, but she also knew how stubborn Jack and Sue could be. She was leaving nothing to chance.

Sorry this was such a long post, but I had a hard time deciding where to break it.
More Later
Kim

great post

thanks for the info on the rings, it's a lovely idea, wish i'd known before embarking on my story but there you go

is she an angel, like tess or monica?

cath

Wow! This Katrina person is a real magical person then? I like how she was able to see deep into the souls of each team member.

You dont have to apologise for a long post, I just love them.
Enjoying the story and can't wait to see what Lucy has planned.

Dianna

kim that was wonderful Im intregred to know who
katrina is she has to be an I cant wait for the rest of
the story lin

Wow, Katrina said some amazing things! Lots to think about.

Em

Huh. I guess we'll just have to wait and see

Chapter 10

“Hey, Luce’s right,” Bobby grinned. “Let’s grab those little ankle biters and scare some sense into them.”

“Okay. But who’s going to take the first surveillance post of the evening?” Jack asked. He figured the team had already decided who the first would be, but he was wiling to play along. After all, his plan depended on it.

“Well, Jack. Since you are the team leader, I think you should take the first shift. And, as two sets of eyes are better than one, we should probably pair off into teams. As team leader, I think you should have the best set of eyes the FBI has to offer. I am, or course, talking about our lovely Ms. Thomas.” Jack stifled a laugh as the smirk on Myles’ face slowly dissolved into an embarrassed grin as the meaning of what he has just said sank in.

Of course he’s right Jack agreed as he gazed into the hazel eyes of the woman who had stolen his heart. She definitely has the best eyes in the FBI…the whole world for that matter. Jack cleared his throat. “Myles, I think some people would disagree with you. Some people might think that there is another employee of the FBI that has even better eyes. Isn’t that right, Sue?” He gave her a saucy grin and wink.

He watched as Sue grinned back, the glint of mischief in her eyes. “Yes. But, unfortunately, Gracie isn’t here tonight.”

Jack moaned as heard the rest of the team rolling with laughter. He gave her a warm smile as he saw the mischief in her eyes had been replaced with the brilliant glow of love. “I love you,” he mouthed as the other team members were busy wiping their eyes.

“I think I can solve this,” D said. “As Supervisor of this finely honed team, I have decided that Jack and Sue will take the first shift. I’ll come and get you when the shift is over.” Jack smiled as D gave him a knowing wink.

Jack hoped the sigh he uttered would convince the team that he was doing this under duress. They were trying so hard, he didn’t want to spoil their fun by ending his charade too soon. “Okay. Sue and I will take the first shift. Myles, would you mind showing Sue which room we will be using for surveillance. I need to talk to D for a minute.” Jack gave Sue a sly wink before motioning for D to follow him to the kitchen.

Jack could barely contain his excitement as he revealed his little plan to D. “So, do you think Donna would let Davey and Tanya stay out late tonight? I mean really late?”

Jack noted the slow grin that spread across D’s face. “I’m sure she will be fine with it. Way to go, Jack.” Jack winced slightly as he felt the force of D’s hand slap his shoulder. I guess I’m not the only one who is excited about this, Jack frowned as he rubbed his sore shoulder.

More later
Kim

loved it kim realy great cant wait for more
lin

This is a victory dance This is going to be great only a few more hours to go....

just love the way they're teasing the team

cath

D doesn't even know is own strenght

and ohhhhh we're going to have a wedding...right....right....i just can't wait

You are conveying Jack's excitment so well. I can just picture him trying to hold his excitement in check. Jack is really having so much fun. I am looking forward to what Jack has planned. It's obvious that D thinks it's the plan is outstanding.